After the fast of Tisha B'Av the Ma'ariv prayer should be held as soon as possible after nightfall (tzet hakochavim) so as not to burden the congregation. Nevertheless, Ma'ariv should be recited calmly and not hurriedly. After nightfall, one washes the hands up to the wrists. Many people are accustomed to wash each hand three times alternately, since in the morning they washed only up to the knuckles. Also, one should wash one's face and rinse one's mouth. After Ma'ariv, it is customary to recite Kiddush Levanah together with the congregation. Before reciting Kiddush Levanah, one should (if possible eat something and) put on leather shoes.
Because the fire that destroyed the holy Temple was ignited toward evening on Tisha B'Av and continued throughout the 10th of Av, Ashkenazic custom is to refrain from eating meat, drinking wine, and reciting the blessing Shehecheyanu on the night and day of the 10th of Av until halachic midday. Since this year the day after the fast is Erev Shabbat, one may, when necessary, have a haircut and wash clothing for the honor of Shabbat (only) even on the night after the fast. From dawn onward, all preparations for Shabbat—including laundering, bathing, and haircuts—are fully permitted in honor of Shabbat. However, unless necessary, one should avoid wearing freshly laundered clothing before midday.
Rav Yosef Ginzberg, Sichat HaShevua
